2021 Toyota RAV4

The RAV4’s evolution to this point has led it through several redesigns, each of which has moved it closer to the apex where it currently resides. From a curvy, awkward crossover to today’s muscular go-anywhere SUV, the RAV4’s look has evolved to reflect that of its newfound capabilities. The newest RAV4, which debuted for the 2019 model year, is boxier, bigger and looks bigger than its predecessors. It also can be equipped with a hybrid powertrain.

Changes for the RAV4 nameplate vary in scope for 2021. First, Toyota added a plug-in hybrid to the family, which is reviewed separately. It’s not only exceptionally fuel-efficient, it’s also the quickest model of the bunch thanks to a 177-horsepower four-cylinder gasoline engine supplemented by three electric motors for a combined output of 302 total horsepower. Its biggest downside is cost, which can grow quickly with the Prime as options and trim levels are added. A $7,500 federal tax credit can help offset its price.

Other than the addition of the RAV4 Prime, the only changes are a new trim for the hybrid (XLE Premium) and a new white color (Blizzard Pearl) replaces the old white color (Super White).

The RAV4 comes in a ton of trims: LX, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, Limited and TRD Off-Road. The hybrid powertrain is an option on all trims except for Adventure and TRD Off-Road. It also has its own standalone trim: the XSE.

The standard gas-powered RAV4 is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 203 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard with the option to upgrade to all-wheel drive on all trims but the Adventure and TRD Off-Road, which get it standard. The RAV4 Hybrid also uses a 2.5-liter engine, but pairs it with two electric motors for a combined system output of 219 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard on the hybrid (one electric motor powers the rear wheels and the gas or other electric motor drives the fronts). The hybrid uses a continuously variable transmission. 

No matter the configuration, the RAV4 is capable, both around town and in the dirt. The gas RAV4 can feel underpowered off the line but holds its own on the highway or on twisty mountain roads. On the pavement, the RAV4 feels planted and stable and makes a reliable highway cruiser. However, road noise is an issue when travelling at speed. Hard acceleration also causes the engine to whine, especially in standard gas models. This is in addition to the wind and road noise can make for a loud commute.

The RAV4 in Adventure and TRD form have the chops to get (slightly) serious about off roading because of the drive modes, but for drivers that want to crawl rocks, just spring for the 4Runner or Lexus GX. However, most RAV4s have 8.6 inches of ground clearance, which passes the minimum 8-inches needed for a vehicle to be considered off-road capable (LE and XLE sit a smidge lower at 8.4 inches). If Toyota introduced a four-wheel-drive RAV4, it’d be primed for the outerlands. 

The RAV4 is function-over-form, even in top trims. Toyota gave the compact SUV a wealth of small-item storage and a large bin in the center console, which is helpful for families with gear and gadgets for kids. Cargo space in the rear in generous and among the largest in the segment with 38.4 cubic-feet. (The Nissan Rogue offers 39.3 cubic-feet and the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape have 39.2.) The Adventure trim comes with a rubber mat that covers the cargo floor in anticipation of dirty getaways. It also doubles as a way to prevent groceries or other bulky items from sliding around while in transit. The rear seats have a 60/40 split for flexible loading. All RAV4 models get standard roof rails and factory-installed crossbars are optional. Passenger comfort also is a consideration. The front seats are deep and nicely padded, and the back seat is shaped more ergonomically than a plain bench and offers more contour compared with competition.

The RAV4 has a standard 7-inch touchscreen that can be upgraded to 8 inches. All models get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which brings navigation and voice commands to even the base version. Toyota’s infotainment software has improved in a short time, but it’s still more complicated than the systems seen in its Honda and Nissan rivals.

The 2021 RAV4 picked up a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The vehicle also gets a decent list of standard advanced safety features that include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, lane keep assistance and adaptive cruise control.